In The Guise Of Installing CCTV For Security Reasons, Individuals Cannot Snoop On Neighbours: Kerala HC

The Kerala High Court has observed that in the guise of installing CCTV surveillance cameras for security reasons, individuals should not be permitted to snoop into the affairs of their neighbours.

The bench of Justice VG Arun made this observation while dealing with a plea by the petitioner who was aggrieved by the installation of CCTV Camera by her neighbour, allegedly focused towards the compound and residence of the petitioner.

“I am of the prima facie opinion that, in the guise of installing CCTV surveillance cameras for security reasons, individuals should not be permitted to snoop into the affairs of their neighbours.”, Justice VG Arun noted.

In this case, the petitioner approached High Court seeking directions to conduct an immediate inspection of the CCTV Camera erected by her neighbour and to do necessary steps to protect the privacy of the petitioner by removing the same, pending disposal of the Petition.

Advocates K.R. Vinod, M.S.Letha appeared for the petitioner.

The Court observed that the situation calls for issuance of orders or guidelines dealing with the manner in which CCTV cameras are to be installed.

“The situation calls for issuance of orders or guidelines dealing with the manner in which CCTV cameras are to be installed. It is for the State Police Chief to come out with appropriate guidelines in this regard, in consultation with the State Government.”, the Court observed.

Thus the Court suo motu impleaded State Police Chief as the additional 5th respondent.

The Court directed the Government Pleader to make available a copy of the order to the State Police Chief and convey the concern expressed by the Court.

Cause Title- Agnes Michale v. Cheranelloor Grama Panchayath & Ors.

Click here to read/download Order